Laphroaig 10 Year Old Scotch – Review

Laphroaig 10 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

96 Proof

Price Point: $45 – $55 for 750 ML

Distiller: Laphroaig Distillery

Background

In my mind, there are two big players with multiple worthwhile (and readily available) expressions on Islay – Ardbeg and Laphroaig.  If you’ve read my past reviews, you’ll know that I rank Ardbeg 10 Year Old very high, and Ardbeg Uigeadail is still the undisputed champion of the world; at least to me.

But Laphroaig is also very intriguing, with a 10 Year Old found in most stores, along with an 18 Year Old, and both a Quarter Cask and Triple Wood available.  That makes for a nice range of whiskies to discover the diversity of Islay.  Below is my review of the most common expression…

Review

Laphroaig 10 Year Old smells very medicinal to start.  There’s more smoke than peat but still plenty of peat (don’t worry).  It’s also a little nutty on the nose, and perhaps a little young.

This stuff is delicious in the mouth.  This is a great entry-level representation of Islay.  Smoke is still the largest component of Laphroaig 10, but it’s also somewhat sweet and a little salty to give it a little more interest.

This one finishes very smoky, almost like a cigar.  It’s also very creamy – a great end to a great whisky.

Rating & Recommendations

Laphroaig 10 Year Old is a really nice whisky, and certainly a quality entry-level offering, earning an 85 out of 100.

This whisky is an instant classic, and I would definitely buy again.

-Ryan